Ani Kaprekar’s Post

I am fortunate to have been raised by strong women – tough, talented, and tenacious. It all began with my mother – our Aai (Mother in Marathi language “आई”). Aai faced life's adversities with quiet strength. My father – brilliant in many ways – suffered a betrayal at work; a setback at a young age sent him down a difficult path. What began as professional failure soon spiralled – bad company, alcoholism, and anger issues. The kind of battles that could tear apart our young family. But Aai refused to let that happen. She held down a demanding job. Fought the Indian joint family complexity and secured a flat with a housing loan beyond our means. Knitted sweaters and sold them for extra income. Walked miles to save money. Worked long hours. And still made sure we had warm meals, clean uniforms, and a childhood filled with love and values, if not many material pleasures. Aai never played the victim. Never asked for sympathy. Instead, she quietly taught us through action, not words. - Hard work is non-negotiable. - Kindness is a strength, not a weakness. - Grace is something you carry within, no matter the circumstances. And above all – "If you want things to change, start with yourself." Back then, I did not understand her. But I see it now. Aai didn't wait for life to get easier. Didn't wait for my father to change. She changed herself first. She chose resilience over resentment. Led by example instead of being consumed by what was unfair. We were raised in a home where strength wasn't about fighting but about standing tall – like the old coconut tree in our building compound. Rooted. Giving. Unshaken by passing storms. Aai is still that woman. Still carrying herself with the same grace and grit. If anything, she's fiercer now – armed with WhatsApp groups, Facebook, FaceTime and living life happily as best she can. :) Most importantly, with the unshakable confidence that she has raised three children who, in their own ways, carry forward the values she (and my dad) instilled. And here I am today, all grown up, surrounded by phenomenal women – at home, at work, and in friendships. Still trying to live up to the lessons I've inherited. I have no qualifications to preach to the world. If anything, I am still learning. Because of that, I've come to realise that my real mission is to keep changing myself first. And maybe, just maybe, by spreading the word, change the world a little bit. Maybe that's why I am writing this today. For the women who shape us, for the change that begins at home, for the lessons we carry forward. What quiet lessons have the women in your life – your mother, sister, partner, or friend – shared that have shaped you? Please share in comments. – Ani PS: Weekly blog post, with #InternationalWomensDay on my mind. (📸 c2011) #India #UK #Polymath #ThoughtLeader #Tech #Creative #Storyteller